Roger Federer extended his remarkable run on British soil to move nearer to a successful defence of his Barclays ATP World Tour Finals title.

Roger Federer progressed to the semi-finals of the ATP World Tour Finals with victory over David Ferrer (Picture: AFP)

The Wimbledon champion has won 13 out of 14 matches here this year, with the only defeat to Andy Murray in the Olympic men’s singles final.

Federer eased into the semi-finals at the O2, beating David Ferrer 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) for his second straight-sets win following an easy victory over Janko Tipsarevic on Tuesday.

This wasn’t vintage Federer but the defending champion was still too hot for the Spaniard, who has failed to beat his Swiss opponent in 14 meetings.

‘I thought it was a great match with good intensity,’ said the world No.2. ‘Ferrer showed why he is so tough to beat. He makes you hit the extra shot.

‘You know he has the mentality that he is not going anywhere and that is why he has so much respect from his fellow competitors.

‘This is a very special tournament for me, it has always been the one I have wanted to be a part of at the beginning of the year. I have loved everywhere I have played at World Tour Finals but this is special because it is in London and the O2 is an amazing venue. I’m happy it is going to stay here for the next few years.’

Ferrer said: ‘He has a lot of weapons to cause me pain. I had several chances to break serve early and didn’t take them. He has one break point against me and makes it.’